Stuck

Our PLDT landline installation was finally completed yesterday The phone line was installed Tuesday but the unit came just yesterday believe it or not they don't have any available unit anymore according to the technician. PLDT sucks but they're one of the largest TELCO in the country so despite their poor service they still have millions of new subscribers just like us. We've had PLDT in our Antipolo house but we had it canceled 2 months ago because we have nothing but problems. Unfortunately, we have no choice at the apartment because the entire building is provisioned for PLDT plus we're in dire need of phone service since our wireless landline stopped working. 

It's Christmas next week so I asked my elder sister to pick up our gift to her and the rest of the family members. Meanwhile, my twin sister and I got our Christmas goody bags from the office, not bad for Noche Buena. I got my Primetime Sodexho yesterday too so I use it to buy groceries. It feels good to always share you're blessings. 

Giving Back

I dropped by at PLDT's business office earlier to take care of our phone application. Our wireless phone quit working last week we've had it for more than a year. I was told that we'll have our phone installed within 5 days, oh well hopefully.

I have all my Christmas presents wrapped up and ready to be given away. My sister thought that I'm being generous this year and asked why I'm giving gifts to everyone in the family I told her I just like to share my blessings to everyone. I'm no Santa Claus, it's Christmas so it's time for gift giving isn't it?

I kept myself busy today, I did some cleaning, laundry, etc. while watching the movie Impulse,  about a girl who had a sexual fling with a psychopath who looks exactly like her husband. Later on, I recycled leftover rice from the fridge, I added some spice to it like we always do it's not your usual boring fried Java rice so my sister and I already have something for dinner later. We can't order food anymore since we don't have phone service yet. 

A Christmas Carol: Movie Review

I finally saw the movie adaptation of the much sought after novel A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens published in 1843. I thought this movie makes perfect sense during this time of the year when people are so consumed with material things they tend to forget the real essence of Christmas which is to let go of negativism as well as share the love. 


The tale opens with the death of miser Scrooge's business partner Jacob Marley. Seven years later, Marley's ghost appears before Scrooge warns him that his soul will be bearing heavy chains for eternity if he does not change his greedy ways and also predicts that a series of other ghosts will follow. Three Christmas ghosts visit Scrooge during the course of the night. First, the ghost of Christmas Past takes Scrooge to the scenes of his boyhood and youth which stir the old miser's gentle and tender side. The second spirit, the ghost of Christmas present, takes Scrooge to the home of his nephew Fred, to observe his game of yes and no and to the humble dwelling of his clerk Bob Cratchit to observe his christmas dinner. The third spirit, the ghost of Christmas future harrows Scrooge with dire visions of his future if he does not learn and act upon what he has witnessed. Scrooge was a changed man after that night, woke up in the morning with a whole new perspective of Christmas and life, treating his fellow men with kindness, generosity, compassion and gaining a reputation as a man who embodies the spirit of Christmas.

I liked the movie for 2 reasons: first, the movie experience is so real it's like I'm flying with Mr. Scrooge. Second, its moral values are very apt for both the young and old. Jim Carrey dubbed Ebenezer Scrooge's voice which is no surprise to me at all since he's such a versatile actor. It was a heart-warming movie especially for cold-hearted people I say. Change may have happened overnight for Mr. Scrooge but I doubt that'll work in real life. I think it's best to plant a good seed today to harvest a good fruit in the future. 

For more information about this movie visit: 

http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/achristmascarol/

Hey, I got my early Christmas present from my sister yay! Cool.

Crazy Over Magic 8 Ball

Where have all the magic 8 balls gone? I've scoured all the toy stores in the mall but with no luck finding one. For some weird reason, every salesperson I've asked is quite clueless of what a magic 8 ball is like I was talking about something that has not existed before All I want for Christmas is a Magic 8 Ball! 


I bought my sister's Christmas present already but I'm not sure if she's ever gonna give me mine I think she's given up looking for my magic 8 ball already and that's not fair. For now, I'll just enjoy my magic 8 ball online.  


Try this, it's really cool: 
http://lord.xopl.com/ulpage3a/8-ball.html


I'm addicted to wifi lately I think I need it to kill time, especially while waiting for the mall to open after my shift in the morning. I just can't live without my phone.

Rest day at last.

Nightmare Before Christmas

This came to mind when I heard about the Ampatuan massacre in the news on Monday morning that claimed lives of about 40 people roughly 20 of whom were a journalist in the town of Ampatuan in Maguindanao province which is an island of Mindanao. According to the news, the victims were about to file a certificate of candidacy for Esmael Mangudadatu, Vice Mayor of Buluan who was challenging Andal S. Ampatuan Jr., son of the incumbent Governor Datu Andal Ampatuan Sr. in the 2010 National Governatorial Elections. The journalists were accompanying women of the Mangudadatu clan which is another powerful and rival clan of the Ampatuan's when their convoy was stopped by about 100 armed men who herded them to a remote hillside and attacked them with M-16 rifles and machetes. Two of their vehicles and many bodies were thrown into a freshly-dug pit and covered with earth by an excavator. Officials said that the death toll rises to 57 as of yesterday and they're still looking for more bodies waiting to be found.

I was devastated. It was barbaric and gruesome. They were slaughtered like animals. What kind of monster is capable of doing this? Can they still sleep at night or even care if they're still alive but their souls are already rotting in hell? I don't get it. How can people kill for a thirst of power? This sick for crying out loud. This is a democratic country but how come some still live in fear and no one can protect them? People are aware of what's going on in Maguindanao but they have no choice but to keep their eyes closed and their mouth shut or the consequence may be fatal. When will this civil war end?

New Moon

I saw the movie New Moon (The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer) yesterday and as anticipated it was just as good as the first one.  I thought it's exciting, action-filled, the visual effects are amazing. Love 'em wolves you can almost touch their fur lol. 


I hate falling in line, I haven't slept a wink I watched this movie after my shift. I don't want to be left behind and I can't wait to see this on the big screen. I was really surprised to see Taylor Lautner's transformation not as a wolf but into a "total hunk." I'm sure he worked darn hard to get those eight packs. My sister and I can't stop giggling when every lady in the audience reacted as soon as he took off his shirt to wipe off the blood on Bella's head in the motorcycle accident scene. Obviously, his hard work paid off to get that super bod. 


The story ends with Edward asking Bella to marry him if she really wants to spend forever with him so he can change her (be an immortal) and become one of them. The movie leaves you wanting for more, I guess that's the whole point. I just finished watching Twilight on Star Movies, I've seen it four times already I guess I just can't get enough of it. 


I have a dental appointment tomorrow and it's been a while since I visit a dentist. Thank goodness I'm on leave tomorrow night also, it's five more days before 13th month, yay!  It's thirty-three days to go before Christmas I already got Christmas presents but if I can still wish for something it'd be to spend Christmas week away from the office. 

Cubao X

I went to Cubao Expo yesterday (formerly Marikina Shoe Expo) along with my sister and niece. We're in the hunt for school shoes but to our dismay, there aren't too many shoes there anymore. I totally understand why the name's changed. 


There are thrift shops that sell ukay ukay as well as all sorts of vintage stuff. There are art shops too but most of them are closed. There's nothing extraordinary about the place really. We found ourselves at the Gateway Mall then later we checked another thrift shop fronting Cubao X that sell all kinds of junk from stuff toys, ukay ukay, shoes, books, broken appliances, etc. but we didn't buy anything there either they're not cheap at all for a piece of junk. Cubao has improved a lot but I feel like I didn't miss anything. 

VANS X Slayer

I got myself a VANS x Slayer slip on yesterday I'm ecstatic about it because I bought it at a cheaper price. I mean seriously, I've owned 2 pair of vans slip ons in the past and it costs around 2-3k but believe it or not I had it for only Php900 from a warehouse sale along Edsa-Shaw. How kewl is that? 


The VANS Slayer theme pays homage to Slayer, one of the most influential trash metal bands in history. Aside from the classic slip-on emblazoned with Slayer's signature logo, they also offer skate and Owens HI models. This warehouse also sells sporting goods for brands like Reebok, Rockport, and Umbro. Where has this place been when I need it? 


I'm loving my VANS I'm pretty sure I'll be back there soon.

Check out vans slayer website here:
http://www.vans.com/slayer/

New Baby

I brought my Nokia 6500 Classic phone at Nokia Care yesterday for repair it's been acting up lately. The battery drains very easily and won't get a full charge anymore, unfortunately, it's 2 months out of warranty already. Hopefully, it's nothing major I've only had it for only a year. I hate to let it go as soon as I had it fixed I might sell it but I got envious when my sister got herself a Samsung Star touch screen phone. I told myself I'd like something edgy yet affordable just like hers so I bought a Nokia 5530 which is one of the most affordable touch phones to date from Nokia. I thought I might like LG's affordable touch phone, a KP500 cookie but I didn't like its specs even if costs so much cheaper than what I got. It doesn't have 3G or wifi, I'm more of a Nokia user anyway so I've no regrets buying another Nokia. 


It helps to do some research when buying stuff so you know what to expect especially if you're on a budget. I've transferred files from my old phone, downloaded themes and videos so far. I'm a happy camper. 


I'm so done with mid-shift I don't give a damn anymore going back to the graveyard because I hate the afternoon traffic. I need to attend to some things in the morning. It's only 54 days to go before Christmas I thought it's not too early to hang our Parol at the terrace door. It's been a tough year for my family when my dad got terribly ill but God has never forsaken us so I have all the reason to be thankful for this year. I know that it's been a tough year for our nation too. We've had tragedies that struck our nation but I still hope that we'll welcome Christmas with joy in our hearts even without the tangible things.

Octoberfest + National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Octoberfest is in the air again. It's been a long time since I've experienced Octoberfest. I think about a year ago when I was still working in Eastwood City. 


I'm still getting used to my new shift. There's long avail which lasted for hours, but wait until calls start coming in it. It's very much like the weather these days, it's very unpredictable. 


My sister and I went to St. Francis Square yesterday to look for cool and affordable stuff. We have plans of going back during the payday weekend hehe. I bought myself a real cool"vector" designed organizer that comes with a pen and discount coupons.  

October is also the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). This program is dedicated to increasing awareness about the importance of the early detection of breast cancer through a nationwide campaign held in October. This pink ribbon shows my support to NBCAM. 

Typhoon Ondoy

I've never seen a real big flood in my life until I finally came face to face with one last Saturday. I took a video of the flood with my camera phone so I can show it to my sister as a proof. She can hardly believe how big the flood was. Thank goodness our apartment is on the second floor and the flood didn't reach our floor but I got a little scared since I'm all by myself. My sister is at work that time I told myself that if the rain won't subside there's still a chance that the water might go up. I'm just really blessed that it subsided before evening and my sister got home safely. 


We had no electricity for more than 24 hours, that was from Saturday afternoon until before 5 PM yesterday. Manong guard said the water motor will be fixed today, I hope so. I heard it drowned after the flood. For the time being our water supply is coming from the ground floor tank. We only use reserved water so it's a must to conserve. I hate complaining because I know that there are less fortunate people out there. On a sad note, I think it will take a long time for our country to completely recover from the wrath of Ondoy, but we have to keep our hopes up.

Bad Weather

I'm not sure if it's just coincidence or just the weather lately that every time I'm in the mood to write something, it's rains or a storm is coming up. 


I can't help but wonder sometimes if my writing invokes rain or something. I read in the news that Ondoy is the name of the tropical storm. There's flood outside and we are on the second floor. When I was a kid my family lived in a house in Quiapo, Manila wherein flood is our constant visitor so I consider myself lucky that we didn't experience that anymore growing up in Antipolo. 


I took a video of the flood using my cellphone so I have a souvenir of Typhoon Ondoy visiting when I saw a cat stuck in the gate downstairs. I got worried it might drown so I decided to come to its rescue. I can't stand seeing a living creature looking helpless like that. I know it may sound odd but I almost called our Manong Guard to rescue the poor cat. 


We lost cable signal again because it's still raining badly. In my opinion, Sky Cable is better off without their Digibox because we have nothing but problems since they hooked that thing up. The signal gets interrupted while in the middle of watching something important. Sucks right? 


I didn't sign up for overtime this week I'm just really tired. I had split off this week it's like I never had off at all. 

Mall Scam + Holiday

Yesterday was the worst day of my life. I was late for work because I got lost in Valero. The cab got caught for doing a right turn on a one-way road, believe it or not, but there's police lurking in Makati on wee hours of the morning. 


After my shift in the afternoon, I went to CD-R King Starmall to buy blank discs and as soon as I got out of the store a lady in corporate attire hand me a coupon that says I have a free door/window entry alarm which is a piece of crap, by the way, because it doesn't work. It won't make a noise unless you leave the on button all the time.  The lady walked me through inside their store, had me sit on a massage chair and told me to wait while they encode the information they got from me like my address and phone number. Later on, they started selling me stuff that I don't have any interest at all like a digital stove, facial massage, etc. After a few more minutes they started acting like they got excited and told me that I won something. Eventually, they want my credit card information that I didn't care give out of course. I'm not stupid to fall for that crap. I thought these people are pathetic and desperate since they don't know the risk of what they are doing. After all their effort I refused the offer and left. I felt so bad I wasted my time maybe I'm just so tired that's why I didn't realize what I was getting myself into right away. My intuition already tells me not to come with that lady but I  got curious over the free stuff I guess. 




I reformatted my laptop it caught a virus again. I can't burn movies anymore and it's not a problem with my external HP dvd writer. 


I asked my elder sister to come over to buy jack a flea soap. Our poor dog's infested with fleas again I think he needs a real good bath. 


Before I forgot, today is a holiday. Our country commemorates on the death of Ninoy Aquino Sr. 


Today is also the finale of the Koreanovela Boys Over Flower. Oh, brother, I've got to watch that.

Not Fair

I went to SM Megamall earlier hoping that I will be able to pay my SSS salary loan. I called to inquire about it last week with SSS and was told that it's possible even if it has penalty already, unfortunately, the teller told me that they only accept monthly payments and not salary loans that haven't been paid for a year. 


I'm really disappointed with my current company because I submitted a photocopy of my SSS voucher before I hit production but it was too late when I noticed that they failed to deduct the remaining amount on my salary for a year upon checking my online contributions. To cut it short I have to carry the burden and pay up my loan including the interest even if it was my employer's fault. Sucks right? I know I'm partly to blame for entrusting that they will take care of everything for me. What's more annoying is that that they didn't admit that they lost the photocopy of the voucher and wants me to sign an authorization to deduct that will allow them to deduct it on a one-time basis... I was like wtf? I end up paying it voluntarily. 


Darn.

Goodbye Cory Aquino

Former president Corazon Aquino is dead at age 76 after a yearlong battle with colon cancer. 


It was no surprise to me anymore when the news broke out on the Internet that cory died this morning. Her supporters have been praying for her the past month. she was the 11th and the first female president of the Philippines. She became president in 1986 and rose to fame after the assassination of her husband Benigno Ninoy Aquino in 1983 who was then an opposition leader. 


I was only six years old when my family moved out of Quiapo and decided to live in Antipolo for good. There was too much turbulence back then I still have a vivid memory of my childhood when helicopters are spraying tear gas in the air while my dad is missing in action. My mom had to close all windows and cover our eyes and nose with a damp handkerchief to prevent us from feeling dizzy and to avid our nose from bleeding. It was way too chaotic. But I don't understand what was happening back then, I'm just a kid. 

Cory led the people power movement that overthrew the repressive Marcos regime without violence that inspired other nations including the end of communist rule in Eastern Europe. But being president of a country where people have high hopes of a better government wasn't an easy task it was like cleaning up mountains of garbage, but she did her best. She was a strong woman and she deserved the good life that she was blessed with. Cory will live forever in the hearts of Filipinos. It's kinda sad to have lost a good soul but I'm sure she's in a better place now and together again with the only man she loved, Ninoy. I uploaded this yellow ribbon on my Facebook account, as my way of saying thanks to her. Without her courage and determination, my generation and this country wouldn't have a taste of democracy nor enjoy freedom. 


Visit the official website:
http://coryaquino.ph/ca_website.htm

My sister and I had some bonding time together and decided to chill at Haagen Dazs, Atrium earlier. I had "Bruffin Surprise" whilst my sister had "Cookie Crunch." I'm just kinda stressed out lately and having ice cream can be a good way to relax sometimes. Indulge.

Hooked

Home alone again. I'm finally done watching Boys Over Flower thanks to my friend for dragging me into this I was hooked for two weeks I come home early so I can watch it on my computer. 


I find it kinda cheesy and boring watching Koreanovelas to be honest. I'm sick of all the drama but BOF is not like those. Yeah seriously, or I wouldn't be spending 2-3 hours each day watching it if it's no good. If Kim Bum's cuteness can kill I'll be dead by now lol! I slept at almost 2AM last night I breezed through all the important episodes that I missed. I like happy endings. 


I think I still have a terrible hangover I broke the flower vase in our dining table while I'm about to clean our placemats earlier good thing I was able to put it all together or my sister will kill me, it's a real cool Aztec vase we bought it  last year we may not find anything like that anymore. 

Belated Father's Day

It's a sunny Monday morning. Scattered clouds and feels like 26-degree Celsius according to our weather notifier. 


I thought it will be a hassle-free morning but our surge protector just died on me good thing we have a spare one but I can't use it for good. Our water dispenser needs it to survive since we have limited power outlets here I think I have to ask my sister to buy one before she gets home from work. 


We did some cleaning yesterday due to the H1N1 scare. I disinfected areas where bacterias can possibly infest. I got scared for my mom last week, my sister told me that she had a slight fever and sore throat when she went home from the Hospital so we had her see a doctor thank God it was nothing serious but still she caught a viral infection. 


My dad was discharged from the hospital a few days ago after another ear operation. He's finally back to our house in Antipolo hopefully he'll get well soon so he can get his health back and go back to his normal routine. He's a very active person I wish he'll be more cautious of his health this time. Yesterday was Father's day so I greeted my dad via text message a Happy Father's Day. I know that he can't reply back because he doesn't know how to text back but. 


I still have a hangover from yesterday's Boys Over Flower (Korean version of Taiwan's Meteor Garden) marathon. A friend of mine lends me a DVD copy I got excited. I thought I'll be able to finish watching it yesterday but I still have just a few episodes left I guess that'll keep me busy again today. Kim Bum is cute as a button. 

Corrupted

Rest day at last. I'm home alone I have to do some laundry in a bit. I cooked egg noodles for breakfast and my sister has to get off to work. I slept past 2AM because I reformatted my computer but I'm happy it's as good as new again. I just reformatted last week but I got so OC with this "Longhorn sidebar" I re-installed the whole thing although I'm aware that it's a risk since it's tied up to Windows so to cut it short what I'm afraid that may happen just happened. Internet Explorer got corrupted and system errors started popping up. 


I went to Quiapo last Sunday and bought Windows XP installers after dropping by at the church. I was there yesterday too because the first Windows XP black edition cd I bought won't boot the old one wasn't working properly either. Pirated installers are pretty much disposable I make sure that I have lots for back-up. Piracy is not good but who can afford to buy original copies of Microsoft products these days? It's way too expensive I'd rather spend the money for something else like for my dad's medication or something. 


It's not over a month yet since my dad's ear operation good thing his wound has healed somehow but he's still complaining of severe head pain so we decided to ask for another doctor's opinion of what could be causing the pain. My parents went to Cardinal Santos last night they're still awaiting test results that may take 2-3 days. The doctor told them that my dad's case is rare and that they can't see anything wrong inside his ear. They couldn't explain the exact cause of pain unless it's some kinda tumor but it's still under observation. I've been reading lots of articles from the Internet I'm really worried and concerned about what my dad's going through hopefully it's not a tumor. I don't want him to have another operation it's just too much for his condition to be under the knife again. It's my dad's birthday on Friday, I wish for him to get well I'm sure that's all he ever wanted for his birthday too. 


I didn't know about the foundation day thingy in Makati yesterday I'm quite pissed off they closed Ayala Avenue. I walked all the way from Ayala to Edsa under the scorching heat of the sun I'm almost ready to pass out I thought I lost about a hundred pounds of body fat on that walkathon. Wtf.

Post Op

I was on birthday vacation in Baguio when my dad got hospitalized due to an ear infection. He started complaining of severe headache he couldn't sleep anymore. My parents decided to travel to Antipolo for the second opinion if it was just mere ear infection. He was confined at Marikina Valley Hospital with the help of his brother whose daughter works there as a nurse. As per the doctor's advise, dad has to undergo an operation but they lack facilities for his so he was referred to UERM Hospital. Thank God dad survived another operation, this has been his fourth operation since 2000. 


I was really frantic at work during his operation that lasted four hours according to my sister who's with him. I only get updates via text messages from her. I hurried home after my shift so I won't miss my brother who came to me fetch at the apartment to accompany me to the hospital to check on dad. I felt pity for seeing my dad looking so weak. I'd help him get up whenever he needs to go to the restroom. 


I haven't been sleeping good because I'm still worried about my dad's post-operation condition. His blood glucose is very unstable and is still being closely monitored by his doctor. He's still on medication and advised to follow a strict diet since he's diabetic so it will take a while for his wound to heal completely. I've been doing self-research on regarding his condition to educate myself. I want to completely understand his condition and possible complications that may arise. I hope and pray that my dad will get better soon.

Happy Kinda Sad Birthday

It's been raining a lot in Baguio since we arrived. My sister and I and I got here yesterday around 2AM via Victory Liner bus. Mom woke us up around 7AM she said dad is complaining of severe pain in his inner ear all night. Dad was previously diagnosed with ear infection still under medication. He woke up with a swollen face on his right and droopy looking mom thought he's having a mild stroke but hasn't complained of any heart-related ailment but to know what is really going with him we took him to Baguio Medical Center before lunchtime. Our elder brother drove us to the hospital. Mom stayed with dad at the hospital whilst my sister and I head over to Session Road. 


It's our 29th birthday today. Brother cooked for us and brought food at the hospital where we celebrated our birthday. According to the doctor that checked our dad, he's suffering from Bell's Palsy. I looked this up on the Internet and according to medical experts that it's caused by nerve trouble. Dad's discharged the same day and will have to take medications at home. We went back to town to hear mass while they head home. We had lunch at some place but weren't satisfied with what we ate so to pacify ourselves we had Banana Split at our favorite ice cream spot called Session Delights. It may be a sad day because of what happened to our dad but since it's still our birthday we pushed through with our birthday plans. We're supposedly going to Tam-Awan Village but the rain got worst we decided to cancel it. 


I hope the weather gets better tomorrow. 

Go DigiBox

Our Sky DigiBox was finally installed last night after a week of ranting. We noticed that we're losing major cable channels but was left uninformed of the digitalization of the cable service in our area. We're scheduled for DigiBox installation but waited for days for someone to come but no one did. I'm disappointed because they should've told us the truth that they cannot accommodate us so we know what to expect. We grew tired of calling customer service until someone finally came last night good thing my sister and I are already home. Skycable is a huge cable company it's a shame the way they treat their costumers is totally unacceptable. 


We love DigiBox of course. It has channel preview, a menu screen that allows you to view daily and weekly program schedules, DigiBox info., system options that include parental control that will allow parents to set up a password and lock channels. Lastly, there are games like Tetris and Gobang that you can play with once you get bored channel surfing. 

Cute Backpack

Gosh, I had a very tiring weekend.


I went to MP (Market Place Mall) and bought a medium-sized Orocan type cabinet because our semi-wooden cabinet nearly collapsed good thing I was able to fix it but we can't put too many clothes on it anymore or it'll finally give up.


I slept early I had a good one last night. I miss sleeping at night just like what normal people do. They say "early to bed, early to rise" and it's true for me because I got up at 5 in the morning. My sister and I had a little chitchat before getting up since we never really had a chance to talk or eat at home together unless it a weekend so we really have to make the most out of it. I'm happy that I'll be on morning shift starting next week. I honestly don't care about night diff. anymore.



We stroll in the mall earlier looking forward that there's a smaller size for the Kickers' sneakers my sister bought herself last week. I guess I like it so much I want what she got but just a different color, unfortunately, there's still no smaller size available. I bought a backpack instead. I love the color and I'm so into vector art lately I got excited so I'll use it tomorrow.


We also decided to buy the mini table for 2 that I saw in MP yesterday, it's cute, I'm glad my sister liked it too.

RIP Francis M

I had a very stressful week. Calls flooded our center there's a lot of frustrated customers for some reason because they waited so long just to get a hold of someone for help. I hate irate callers. I try my best to understand where they're coming from but I can't help it I get carried away sometimes, I'm only human. 


I thought I need some fresh air so I decided to spend the weekend in Antipolo. Nothing feels like home. Our house is really spacious I can be a couch potato while watching TV all day, eat real food and have an awesome view of Manila from our veranda. We don't have this much space in the apartment that's why I miss home sometimes. This is my idea of a perfect rest day. 


Change topic, according to the news that Francis Magalona also known as Francis M the master rapper, died of Leukemia complications last Saturday at age 44. It's sad that he didn't make it until E-heads' "Final Set" concert. I'm curious as to who did a rap for "Superproxy" or what happened to the concert. His hit song Cold Summer Nights from his first album Yo!, is my personal favorite. My elder brother scored a copy of this album because it was a huge success it's worth keeping though I'm not sure if he still has it. 

Absie

I wasn't able to come to work last week after my leave due to a viral infection. I was ready to go to work when I noticed in the morning that something feels rough in my throat.


I commuted from Antipolo to Shaw and ignored what that feeling thinking that it will just go away. Before going to bed I did a little research I thought I might have symptoms of viral infection. I've had this in the past it was worse actually I even thought I might undergo an operation because the doctor found two abscesses close to my throat I'm lucky it disappeared after taking antibiotics. I got worried when I started having difficulty swallowing food so I texted my sister to buy me two pieces of over the counter antibiotics. I decided to self medicate but what works for me may not for everyone so it's still recommended to see a doctor.

Not Yet

I was with my mom on our way to Antipolo when we nearly had a fatal accident. It was drizzling and the road was slippery but that didn't stop the reckless driver of the jeepney that we're in from driving fast until the break quit working we swerved and almost fell off the cliff hadn't he intentionally bumped at a stone on the side of the road. It was a scary experience I thought it's the end of me. I remember when I told my mom to ride the jeepney that went ahead but she insists for us to be on that jeep. Nevertheless, I'm still thankful for that we got home safe I guess it's not my time to go yet.


I guess mom had the fright of her life and got stressed out so she decided to cook Ginataang Saging (banana with coconut milk) to make her feel better. I thought it's too sweet maybe she still have hangover from what happened. We had Pancit topped with sardines for dinner. I thought my elder sister will not eat that anything with sardines, surprisingly she liked it. Later in the afternoon, Skycable peeps installed our cable, they actually came sooner than expected so good.


I'm back from my three days off. I feel sober I have rested well. Ever since we moved back to our other house along Sumulong Highway still in Antipolo, I'm always looking forward to spending my rest day there because I get to real food especially vegetables. Mom would always cook healthy food for us she knows that we don't have time to cook good food in the apartment, we have nothing but processed food.


Mom and dad are leaving for Baguio how I wish I can come but I have shift tonight. Argh.

Moving Out

I just got back from Antipolo a couple of hours ago. Mom helped me in moving pieces of furniture from our house in Antipolo where we stayed for twenty-two years to our other house in Sumulong Highway. It's kinda hard for me and my sister to let go of our space because it's accessible to pretty much everything but we rarely stay there and mom wants to help us pay our rent in Shaw that's why we decided we'll have the space available for others to rent. 


Letting go is hard to do. I hope things work out fine.

Happy Birthday Sissy

It's my sister's birthday today. I want to be the first to greet her a Happy Birthday so as early as five in the morning I already send her greetings through an e-Card, I'm glad she liked it. She texted me that they are on their way to Baguio Cathedral to hear mass. 


It's a Tuesday morning and my sister's first day of work she just had her rest day so I'm cooking breakfast for her before she leaves. My shift this month changed from 9:30 PM to 11:30 PM. Thank goodness there's no more traffic and my rest day is better because I have a weekend and a weekday off. Gotta love Sunday I can go to church and Monday is my time to go to the bank to pay bills and stuff. 


My sister and I can have more time together, yay!

More Oatmeal Cookie Please

Kung Hei Fat Choi! 


It's officially the year of the Ox as per the Chinese calendar. To start off, I brought home a box of oatmeal cookies for Php165 from a friend of mine which is not bad for 15 pieces you get to enjoy such yummy oatmeal cookies that's about the size of a mug coaster. My friend suggested  I should pair it up with 7 Eleven's coffee latte because most people say it tastes good so I gave it a shot. 


I'm glad 7eleven came up with good coffee. For Php45 you get to enjoy a cup of coffee that's just as good as Starbucks. I brought home 2 caramel latte for me and my sister so she can try it too. 


My sister cooked a sumptuous fried rice for breakfast then we had oatmeal cookies for dessert. We scored a DVD rip of the movie "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" that i just finished downloading last night so we watched it together. I didn't enjoy this movie, to be honest even if it had thirteen nominations from the recently concluded Oscar Academy Awards because I simply got bored.

The U.S. of A Got a New President

Newly elected President Barack Obama

Today is a historic day for American citizens as Barack Obama took the oath of office at the National Mall at noon in Washington DC. This day is about to end for Americans but will surely make another mark in the history of the USA and for the rest of the world. The presidential inauguration was attended by roughly over 13,000 people and was witnessed by millions of people around the globe according to the news. 


I fell asleep around 2pm yesterday, woke up at 7PM and waited patiently until past midnight (12 noon US time) and was glued to CNN the whole time for the inauguration of Obama and Biden. Obama's oath was delayed for like 20-30 minutes it was scheduled to be at 12:01 but nevertheless it was worth the wait. His speech was great as the New York Times puts it "it was pragmatic and hopeful," I totally agree. It was so beautiful it brought Americans to tears. One of the lady news anchors for CNN admitted that she was crying while listening to Obama's speech. 


The legendary "Queen of Soul" singer Aretha Franklin, she wore a hat with the biggest ribbon I've ever seen, sang her heart out "My Country, 'Tis of Thee." Other performances include John Williams composition whose music was heard at Obama’s victory party on election night in Grant Park his new piece was played by Perlman on violin, Yo-Yo Ma on cello, Gabriela Montero on piano and Anthony McGill on clarinet. Indeed, it was a serious moment but there were a few noticeable bluffs, I like that because it shows that they have a human side too, everyone's really serious you know. 


As a first timer in the inaugural stage it wouldn't be surprising for Obama to be nervous, like messing up the oath, he paused after saying "that I will solemnly execute..." while wife Michelle was looking at him and waiting for the rest of the words to come out of his mouth, unfortunately, she can't help him repeat the words so Chief Justice Roberts had to do it again but just like a contagious disease that Obama spread, he fumbled on the words either so instead of saying "that I will execute the office of..." he interchanged it to "the of...faithfully the pres...the office of the president of the United States." With respect to the constitution, Obama corrected Roberts and himself until it was finally over. 


Going back, Obama's 18-minute speech focused on sensitive issues like racial discrimination, the need to rebuild America with of course the help of its people and many other others but the most memorable part to me was when he stressed:


"Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. they are serious and they are many. they will not be met easily or in a short span of time. but know this, America — they will be met." 


Those words made Americans emotional and spirits soar high. I hope that  Obama will bring forth change not just to his nation but and will serve as an instrument to bridge the gap among nations. 

For a transcript of Obama's speech, read it here:

http://www.sharonherald.com/webonly/local_story_020125925.html

Sleepyhead

I almost fell asleep in the fx on my way now because I'm so tired after my graveyard shift good thing my iPod kept me company, it was such a boring trip. I put on loud music intentionally, I'm beginning to hate listening to FM stations they don't play good music that makes sense anymore. 


I've been watching a lot of new programs on TV and just recently I started watching Project Runway Philippines. I think that this is a good venue to showcase local designers and show the world what we got. To be honest, I'm not really a fan of international franchising but it seems inevitable that this is the "in" thing nowadays. I think I'm okay with the local franchise of Survivor (we have Survivor Philippines) but not movies. The movie "Desperadas" for example is obviously derived from the popular TV series Desperate Housewives. A few years ago I was one of those that got hooked watching for crying out loud the Tagalized version of Taiwan's comedy/drama series Meteor Garden. The infamous Mexican star Thalia once captured the hearts of Filipinos with her Mexican Telenovela Marimar (aw!) I think we can do better if we will try to come up with anything original or is it too risky to do so? I guess I'm just curious. 


When I arrived home I noticed a tent set up in front of our neighbor's house so I asked my elder sister who died and got shocked to find out that our long-time neighbor whom we call Aling Ludy who's a good friend of my mom, already passed away due to cardiac arrest. I sort of felt guilty especially when I learned from my mom that Aling Ludy told her that she misses us because she doesn't see us anymore. I think I saw her last month maybe a week before Christmas but I didn't realize thought that it would be the last time I'll see her alive. She even looked at me, I did not even smile or say Hi, I guess I'm just really shy. Aling Ludy used to deliver us food every time there's a birthday celebrant in their family. She would bring us Spaghetti or Pancit (I love her spaghetti) and cake and we always look forward to that. She will be missed especially by my mom because she always keeps her updated on what's going on with her life. 


My friend's grandmother also died yesterday I thought she got sick that's why she was absent for last night but I heard about what happened from our team leader she never told anyone except her so I texted her to give my condolences. 


Death is like a thief, indeed.

H2O

I love the cool morning breeze. It's so darn hard to get out of bed these days. I've been drinking plenty of water and tea because according to my own research that that "hydrotherapy" is a good way to treat common colds. It flushes out the system and removes the toxins that cause disease. 


Doctors recommend drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day. I tend to neglect that especially if I don't have colds, I would rather drink soda or coffee. Oh well, I guess I have no choice but to drink coffee before I go to work since I work at night, to keep me awake. 


My parents are in Antipolo. They complain that it's twice colder than in Baguio and I'm like really? Who wouldn't get sick of the drastic weather change? I've never experienced this kind of cold in Manila it's almost like Baguio, in fact, we don't turn on the ac or electric fan anymore would you believe it? I can't help but reminisce when we were kids we dip "pandesal" over hot coffee or Milo... I miss the taste of good ol' pandesal. 


I envy my sister's pay she had me check it online she definitely will enjoy her tax refund whilst I don't get one for submitting my 2316 darn it. Well, that's life, she deserved it anyway.

Tardy

I had two tardy this month I guess I got used not having to deal with traffic during the holidays. I this is not a good sign to start the year. Tomorrow's payday I'm curious about how much I'll doing overtime plus the holiday pay. I don't know how I still managed to survive. Our last pay was before Christmas with all these tax deductions, etc. This is the first time that I will not get a tax refund I think it's just unfair that our government deducts almost half of our hard earned money but we don't know where the hell they're going. 


My cold is getting worst but I still have plans of getting a haircut later, my hair is becoming such a mess I don't know what to do with it anymore. My rest day is boring me I have nothing much to. It's a sad life in the city. I get to buy things that I want but in return, I have to sacrifice the time I spend with our family. I don't get the chance to see my parents often since they are in residing in Baguio. My parents have been asking me and my sister to come live with them and work in Baguio but that wouldn't be an easy step and a risk to leave everything just like that. But who knows what lies ahead.

Welcome Year of the Ox

Media Noche food

Happy New Year! Today is the first day of the year of the Ox also known as "Ji Chou" in the Chinese calendar. 


Everyone's still fast asleep after having a blast last night. This is the first time that my sister and I welcomed the new year together in Shaw. It was really awesome being able to watch the fireworks display. I was in awe seeing beautiful lights, the sky was filled with different colors. Everything was so magical how I wish I could freeze that moment. 


We had Penne al Pesto, pizza and Mango float for dessert for Media Noche. The food was great but it's nothing compared to the joy of spending the holidays with family. 


My sister said that her new year's resolution is to start saving this year so I'll see if she can keep up with that. As for me, I'll continue saving for the rainy days.